The Death of Mark Antony with Cleopatra at left 1778

Johann Georg Wille created this engraving called *The Death of Mark Antony with Cleopatra at left*. This print reflects the 18th-century fascination with antiquity and the tragic love story of Cleopatra and Mark Antony. It’s important to remember that portrayals of Cleopatra, like this one, have historically been shaped by the male gaze, often emphasizing her beauty and exoticism while overlooking her political power and intellect. Here, Cleopatra is rendered as the archetypal grieving lover, a representation that both romanticizes and domesticates her. In contrast, we have to think about how history remembers powerful women, often framing them within narratives that suit prevailing societal norms. In its emotional intensity, the print invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of love, power, and loss.